Best 5 Landscaping Companies in Merced, CA

DIY Options vs. Professional Services

You may have some basic lawn maintenance knowledge. However, landscaping requires advanced skills, intense labor, and heavy equipment. More complicated landscaping projects, such as adding a fire pit or irrigation system, also necessitate construction and machinery experience.

You can complete some landscaping projects yourself. Smaller projects, such as adding a flower bed or removing overgrown plants, are easier to DIY. You should hire a professional landscaper for things like a total yard overhaul, and for smaller projects if you don't have the needed expertise.

Professional landscape architects and designers have the skills and knowledge to elevate your outdoor space. They can recommend the most cost-effective upgrades and develop long-term landscape maintenance plans. If they also offer lawn care services, contractors can help improve your yard health, and you'll avoid making costly mistakes doing it on your own.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Merced Landscaping Company

Experience and reputation are important considerations when hiring a landscaping company, but it's also important that the provider offers the services you need within your budget. Keep the following considerations in mind when shopping for landscaping contractors.

Services Offered

Know what services you need before picking a provider. Some companies provide lawn care services focused on yard health and maintenance. These services may include fertilizing, mowing, mulching, pruning, and controlling weeds. Many also offer pest control and tree removal services.

You'll need full-service landscaping if you plan to revamp your yard or want new outdoor elements, such as a fire pit. These companies specialize in outdoor designs and upgrades, including gardening, landscaping rock projects, and adding hardscapes. They may also help install retaining walls, fire pits, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and other architectural elements. Some provide lawn maintenance services.

Licensing and Experience

Landscapers often have advanced training and certification in areas such as outdoor design, horticulture, and lawn maintenance. A company should have the appropriate licenses from the California Contractors State Licensing Board. It may also have the following certified staff members:

• Certified fertilization or pesticide specialists
• Licensed arborists
• Licensed horticulture specialists
• Licensed or certified landscaping designers or architects

Reputation and Reviews

Look for a contractor who has an excellent reputation and positive customer reviews. You can read both negative and positive reviews on third-party review sites such as the Better Business Bureau to get a feel for how a company treats its customers. You want to avoid companies that have frequent mentions of poor project results, delayed projects, or unreliable customer service, or that have overall poor reviews.

Work Portfolio

Many landscaping and maintenance companies proudly share photos of previous projects with potential customers. Ask to see a portfolio of landscaping projects and designs, preferably ones that are similar to the ideas you have for your yard. Often, companies have before and after photos to illustrate the quality of their work.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability practices may include water conservation, waste management, and eco-friendly material options, and they're an important consideration when selecting a landscaper. Landscaping work shouldn't impact your current vegetation. Additionally, your contractor should choose native plants, such as evening primrose, red columbine, and beach strawberry. Ask your landscaper about sustainability practices for your project, and get recommendations for ways to reduce maintenance costs, water consumption, and waste.

Cost

Homeowners should request quotes from multiple companies to learn about pricing and services. Most companies provide free consultations to review your outdoor space, offer recommendations, and review project plans. You’ll receive a detailed quote outlining your project costs, including materials and labor. You can use competing quotes to negotiate a lower price.

Landscaping Costs in Merced

Landscaping in Merced generally costs between $24 and $35 per hour. These figures depend on factors such as project type and size. Bigger projects like resodding will cost more than simple lawn tasks like mowing or gardening. Pricing can depend on your chosen materials. For a bigger yard, companies might charge by the acre. Larger projects require more labor, which will increase the total cost. The table below breaks down the average cost of different landscaping services: